Highlands Guide

As well as being a wonderful holiday destination the Highlands are home to a quarter of a million people living in communities spread throughout the area. From the vibrant city of Inverness to remote crofting communities and sparsely populated islands.

What these communities do have in common and something that is particularly apparent to visitors is that they are all part of an area which is culturally distinct - influenced by our often violent history, a strong cultural heritage, and the gaelic language.

Which Highlands are there to choose from? The mountain slopes of Lochaber, lorded over by Ben Nevis near Fort William, are different in atmosphere from, the long reaches of the Caithness flow country, with its interlacing tiny lochans and open moorland stretches. The jagged ridges of the Cuillins of Skye different still, or the reddish granites of the Cairngorms that overlook the ancient pine forests of Strathspey. From the mossy oakwoods on the road to Ardnamurchan to the sandy shores of Nairn or Dornoch, the Highlands offer countless scenic experiences. To the City of Inverness and the bustling town of Fort William.

Alternatively, you could let each day unfold in ease, visit castles or heritage centres, idle by lochs or beaches when the sun shines, taking a snap or two here and there as the light strikes the crags the Highlands are a photographer's paradise. Besides, it isn't as far as you think and the roads are quiet, not to mention there being plenty of choice of quality places to eat.

Here are just some places to visit in and around The Highlands and Islands: